We recently had the 2008 Ford Edge crossover in our garage. It was our second go-around with the Edge after reviewing the vehicle when it was first introduced a year ago.
Not a lot has changed, other than a new upscale, Limited options package.
The Edge is one of Ford’s better products and fills the gap between the lack of a minivan and the traditional SUV Explorer.
One of the few drawbacks to the Edge is that it lacks a third-row seating area, something many competitors offer. Still, the Edge is holding its own on the sales floor, even again the GM triad of the Buick Enclave, GM Acadia and Saturn Outlook.
Helping boost Edge sales is an aggressive marketing campaign with heavy TV coverage, something the Taurus X, a near Ford cousin, doesn’t receive.
There are three trim levels available with the Edge to fit a family’s budget. The SE model starts with a modest offering of standard features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditional and full compliment of power windows, doors and mirrors. However, to “dress up” an Edge, you really need to step up the SEL or the Limited.
To get the most out of the Edge, the Limited package is the way to go. That optional group offers dual-zone climate control, power liftgate, rear entertainment system and an extra large “Vista” sunroof that extends over much of the roofline. The limited also offers an upgraded nine-speaker audio system. The SE and SEL versions only offer a four-speaker system.
Also new is Ford’ touted “Sync” system that allows voice operation of cell phones, PDAs and MP3 players. The navigation system also is voice-activated now.
The interior is nicely done with optional leather. Storage areas are plentiful and the rear seats recline and fold nearly flat for additional cargo space. Because it doesn’t have a third row of seats, leg room in the second row is plentiful.
The Edge is powered by a 265-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive that automatically shifts between front-wheel to all-wheel on demand is optional in all three levels.
The Edge has clean, smooth exterior lines with Ford’s new horizontal window blind grill treatment.
Handling is smooth and precise, helped by the lower profile than a regular SUV.
Ford was among the few to see the rapid decline in demand for minivans and introduced the crossover-station wagon concept five years ago with the now departed Freestyle crossover that just never caught on with buyers.
However, the Edge is a definite step forward and a leading factor on Ford showroom floors.

Ryan’s Ride – I like the idea of the Edge. Never being a minivan fan, I like the idea of a most SUVs.
The Edge fills the bill in nearly all areas. The lack of third-row seating is not a major drawback for me. Besides, you can’t comfortably get into the third-row seats of most SUVs or crossovers that offer that option. If that’s important, then consider the Mazda CX-9, which is very similar to the Edge is most areas, other than exterior styling.
While the engine is strong enough, it’s not a race car and isn’t intended to be one. My one major fault with the powertrain package is the lack of options for the driver on the shift column. You either select D or L. Maybe an auto/manual transmission would be a good idea to give the driver the option of more control as road or driving conditions change.
Overall, the Edge is a solid package for families and choosing the right trim level is a matter of wants and budget.

Marilyn’s Moment – The Edge offers a lot of advantages for the driver. The higher ride height provides better vision, the large four doors offer easy access and exiting and the power liftgate is a definite plus in my book.
The front cabin is roomy and filled with plenty of storage spaces. The controls are easy to understand and operate, although I’m still not sure what or how the Sync system is supposed to work. I’m still stuck on the radio and CDs.
One thing I would change would be the folding rear seats. They don’t go perfectly flat, which makes carrying some items difficult. But for normal visits to the grocery store, it works fine. Even with the rear seats upright, there’s enough room for a week’s worth of grocery bags.
The Edge has plenty of power and the ride is smooth, even on rougher surfaces. Parking is easy, again because of the higher seats.
If I had a small family and didn’t need the extra seats, the Edge would be a perfect fit in my garage.